If you want to catch Murmansk at its most inviting, you really have to plan around the city’s unique subarctic climate. The best time to visit Murmansk for comfortable weather is during the summer months of June, July, and August. Daytime highs usually range between 12°C and 18°C, and the Midnight Sun keeps the sky bright around the clock. This short season gives you a rare chance to explore the Arctic without facing the extreme cold that dominates most of the year.
Outside of summer, Murmansk feels completely different. Winter brings long nights, freezing temperatures, and a shot at seeing the Northern Lights.
Spring and autumn fall somewhere in the middle, with chilly but manageable conditions that still remind you you’re in the Arctic.
Knowing how each season shapes the weather really helps you decide if you want endless daylight, snowy adventures, or something in between.
Overview of Murmansk Weather Patterns
Murmansk, Russia has long, cold winters and short, mild summers.
The city sits north of the Arctic Circle, so daylight and darkness change a lot through the year. You get polar nights in winter and the midnight sun in summer.
Precipitation stays moderate, but snow covers the ground for much of the colder months.
Subarctic Climate Characteristics
Murmansk has a subarctic climate because of its spot on the Kola Peninsula near the Barents Sea.
Winters stretch from late October through April, with frequent snowfall and limited daylight.
The Gulf Stream keeps the port ice-free, even this far north. This helps moderate temperatures compared to inland Siberia, but conditions still feel harsh.
You’ll notice the polar night from early December to early January, when the sun simply doesn’t rise.
In contrast, the midnight sun from late May to late July gives you continuous daylight, which is great for outdoor activities.
Humidity stays high all year, and cloud cover is pretty common. Even in summer, skies often look overcast, so sunshine hours are limited compared to more southern places.
Temperature Ranges Throughout the Year
Average winter temperatures in Murmansk sit near -9°C (15°F) in January and February.
Cold snaps can push readings below -30°C (-22°F), but that doesn’t happen every day.
Spring warms up slowly, but freezing nights can linger into May.
By June, average highs reach 13–14°C (55–57°F). July usually peaks near 17–18°C (63–64°F).
Occasionally, brief heat waves send temperatures above 30°C (86°F), though that’s rare.
Autumn cools off fast. September averages 7–8°C (45°F), and October already hovers near freezing.
By November, subzero days come back in force.
| Month | Avg. Low °C | Avg. High °C |
|---|---|---|
| Jan | -12.5 | -6.6 |
| Apr | -3.4 | 2.9 |
| Jul | 9.6 | 17.7 |
| Oct | -0.2 | 3.6 |
Seasonal Changes in Precipitation
Murmansk gets about 510 mm (20 in) of precipitation per year, which is moderate for a northern city.
Snowfall dominates from October through May, piling up the most in mid-winter.
Summer is actually the wettest season. July sees the most rain at about 66 mm.
Rain usually falls as light showers or drizzle, and fog often rolls in along the coast.
February and other winter months are drier, with around 22 mm of precipitation, but snow still falls pretty frequently thanks to all the clouds.
You can expect 8–12 days of precipitation per month on average, with not much variation between seasons.
Snow, rain, and mist all add to the damp feel, even if totals aren’t that high.
Best Months to Visit Murmansk for Pleasant Weather
You’ll find the most comfortable weather in Murmansk during the short summer, with milder options in late spring and early autumn.
Temperatures, daylight, and rain patterns shift fast, so timing your visit really matters if you want to spend time outdoors.
Ideal Summer Weather: July and August
July and August bring the warmest and most stable weather to Murmansk.
Average daytime highs hit 19–20°C (66–68°F), and nights cool down to about 9°C (48°F). You can spend hours outside without bundling up in winter gear.
Rainfall is moderate, but August usually has fewer showers than July.
You get more dry days in August, which helps if you want clear weather for sightseeing.
These months also bring the Midnight Sun, with nearly 24 hours of daylight.
You can plan hikes, city walks, or boat trips whenever you want, since darkness isn’t a concern.
If you like warmer temperatures and more reliable weather, August is just a bit better.
July still feels comfortable, but expect more frequent showers.
Mild Spring and Early Autumn Conditions
Late May, June, and September have cooler but still manageable weather.
In June, daytime highs average 14°C (57°F). September is about the same, though nights turn colder.
June offers long daylight hours and no snow, so exploring nature trails feels easier.
However, you’ll probably see more rain compared to August.
By September, daylight drops off, but temperatures stay mild enough for sightseeing outdoors.
You should expect more rain, but the cooler air and smaller crowds can make the city feel calmer.
These shoulder months work well if you want fewer tourists and don’t mind wearing layers. You also get a chance to see Murmansk just before or after the busy summer.
Winter Weather in Murmansk: What to Expect
Winter in Murmansk brings long nights, heavy snow, and freezing air.
You’ll find harsh but stable conditions that shape both daily life and travel in the city.
Cold Temperatures and Snowfall
From December through February, subarctic cold takes over Murmansk.
Daytime highs usually stay around -5°C to -10°C (23°F to 14°F), and colder nights can drop below -15°C (5°F).
Extreme lows happen, but temperatures rarely fall below -20°C (-4°F) because the Barents Sea helps moderate the cold.
Snow falls consistently and often heavily.
Snow usually starts in late October and sticks around until April.
Streets, rooftops, and forests stay covered, creating a deep winter scene.
You should also expect limited daylight.
In December and early January, Murmansk goes through the Polar Night, when the sun never rises.
Even then, you’ll get a few hours of twilight during the day.
Strong winds add to the chill.
Gusts from the north bring icy air, and winds from the sea boost humidity, making the cold feel even sharper.
Warm clothes and layers are a must if you want to be outside for long.
Aurora Borealis Viewing Season
The long, dark winter nights make Murmansk one of the top spots in Russia to see the Aurora Borealis.
The season usually runs from late September through early April, with the best chances between December and March.
You’ll need clear skies for the best show.
Snow and clouds are common, but sometimes the sky opens up for bright green and purple auroras.
Patience pays off, since activity changes from night to night.
The city has some light pollution, so for better views, you should head a short distance outside Murmansk.
Areas along the Kola Peninsula, near frozen lakes or forest clearings, often have clearer skies.
You can join a tour, but exploring on your own is possible if you’re ready for icy roads and extreme cold.
Always check the aurora forecast and dress warmly for long hours outside.
Unique Weather Phenomena in Murmansk
Murmansk’s spot above the Arctic Circle creates some unusual light conditions that shape everyday life and travel.
You’ll experience long stretches of daylight in summer and extended darkness in winter, each with its own set of challenges and perks.
Midnight Sun Experience
From late May to late July, Murmansk gets the Midnight Sun.
During this time, the sun stays visible for 24 hours a day.
You can walk outside at midnight and still see the city in daylight.
This happens because Murmansk sits well within the Arctic Circle.
The tilt of the Earth keeps the sun above the horizon for weeks, so you get continuous daylight.
Temperatures stay pretty mild, usually between 12°C and 18°C, making it the most comfortable time for outdoor adventures.
The constant light lets you stretch your schedule without worrying about nightfall.
Hiking, fishing, and sightseeing become easier since you never lose the sun.
Many visitors notice their sleep patterns change, so packing an eye mask is a smart move.
Local festivals and events often take advantage of the bright nights.
You might catch concerts, cultural gatherings, or outdoor markets running late into the evening.
This period really defines Murmansk’s summer and draws lots of travelers.
Polar Night and Extended Darkness
On the flip side, Murmansk goes through the Polar Night from early December to mid-January.
During this stretch, the sun never rises.
Instead of full daylight, you get a few hours of twilight around midday.
Temperatures often fall to -7°C to -10°C, with plenty of snow and icy winds.
The lack of sunlight can sap your energy, so it helps to plan some indoor activities.
Museums, cultural events, and cozy cafés become favorite hangouts.
While the darkness can feel tough, it also creates perfect conditions for seeing the Northern Lights.
Clear nights often bring vivid displays of green and purple across the sky.
Many travelers actually come to Murmansk in winter just for this.
Street lighting and festive city squares help brighten the long nights.
Locals seem to adapt well, sticking to their routines even with almost no daylight.
Experiencing the Polar Night gives you a rare glimpse into life in the far north.
Monthly Breakdown of Murmansk Weather
Murmansk has long, cold winters with heavy snow and short, cool summers with mild temperatures.
Conditions change quickly through the year, so knowing what to expect each month helps you plan your trip realistically.
Temperature and Precipitation by Month
Winter takes over Murmansk from November through March.
Average highs in January and February stay near -7°C (19°F), and lows often drop below -15°C (5°F).
Snow piles up, with average depths over 25 cm (10 in) by February.
In spring (April–May), temperatures climb a bit but still feel chilly.
Highs range from 3°C (38°F) in April to 10°C (50°F) in May.
Snow melts quickly, but light rain shows up more often.
Summer (June–August) is short and cool.
July is usually warmest, with highs near 17–18°C (62–64°F).
Rain peaks in July, averaging 8–9 cm (3–3.5 in), so expect frequent showers along with the warmest days.
By September and October, temperatures drop back to single digits.
Highs go from 11°C (52°F) in September down to just 4°C (39°F) in October.
Rain stays steady, and snow starts to return late in the season.
| Month | Avg. High °C | Avg. Low °C | Precipitation (cm) | Snow Depth (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | -7 | -18 | 3.6 | 23 |
| Apr | 3 | -6 | 3.3 | 14 |
| Jul | 17 | 8 | 8.6 | 0 |
| Oct | 4 | -2 | 6.4 | 8 |
Cloud Cover and Sunshine Hours
Murmansk skies feel cloudy for most of the year. Winters get especially overcast, and daylight nearly disappears because of the polar night in December and early January.
During those weeks, you might only catch a bit of twilight each day.
But things flip in late May through mid-July with the midnight sun. The sun just refuses to set, and you get daylight around the clock.
People find it easier to explore then, even if the weather stays cool and rain shows up more than you’d like.
Spring and autumn barely offer a few hours of sunshine each day. In September and October, the clouds roll back in, and daylight shrinks fast.
By November, gray skies take over, and winter darkness creeps in.
Summer brings brighter days, but don’t count on much sun for the rest of the year. Overcast skies and long stretches without direct sunlight are the norm.
Travel Tips for Visiting Murmansk by Season
Because Murmansk sits above the Arctic Circle, you get long, bright summer days with mild temperatures, and then winter hits with extreme cold and very short days.
If you prepare for these wild swings, you’ll stay more comfortable and actually enjoy the local culture, outdoor adventures, and seasonal events.
Packing Recommendations for Different Weather
In summer (June–August), temperatures usually sit between 12°C and 18°C. You’ll want light layers—long-sleeve shirts, a fleece, and a waterproof jacket.
Don’t forget comfortable walking shoes, since you’ll probably spend ages outdoors with the Midnight Sun messing up your sense of time.
During autumn (September–November), temperatures drop off fast. Bring a warm coat, gloves, and waterproof boots, since rain is pretty common and daylight keeps fading.
In winter (December–February), the cold can hit -10°C or even lower. You’ll need thermal layers, insulated boots, a down jacket, and all the accessories: hats, scarves, the works.
Hand warmers and moisture-wicking base layers come in handy if you’re hoping to catch the Northern Lights or try out winter sports.
For spring (March–May), expect melting snow mixed with some mild days. Waterproof shoes help, along with a medium-weight jacket.
Sunglasses are useful on those bright days when sunlight bounces off the snow.
| Season | Avg. Temp | Essentials |
|---|---|---|
| Summer | 12–18°C | Light layers, rain jacket, walking shoes |
| Autumn | 0–8°C | Warm coat, gloves, waterproof boots |
| Winter | -10°C | Thermal wear, insulated boots, down jacket |
| Spring | 0–10°C | Waterproof shoes, medium jacket, sunglasses |
Activities and Events Based on Climate
In summer, you get those long daylight hours, so why not hike the Kola Peninsula or try fishing in the local rivers? If you’re feeling more like a city explorer, check out Murmansk landmarks like the Alyosha Monument. The Midnight Sun lets you wander around and sightsee way later than you’d expect.
Autumn rolls in with cooler weather and, honestly, way fewer tourists. It’s a great time for photography, since the tundra really pops with color. You might catch Murmansk City Day in September, with concerts and exhibitions that give the city a lively feel.
During winter, the Polar Night settles in and everything feels a bit surreal. You can go skiing, hop on a snowmobile, or join a tour to chase the Northern Lights. Local festivals and holiday markets bring out some real northern charm.
Spring finally brings longer days and milder temps. The snow starts melting, so you can get around the city and the nearby nature spots without too much hassle. In May, the Day of the Northern Fleet comes around, with parades and naval celebrations that are honestly worth checking out.